Salguero expects Pouncey and his agent to pay close attention to this contract, even if they ultimately fall short of Mack’s average salary. Pouncey could still target $7 or $8 million per year in his next contract if Mack’s contract is used as the ceiling in negotiations.

Salguero previously reported that the Dolphins will exercise Pouncey’s fifth-year option next month, so he’ll be under team control for the next two years.

Pouncey, 24, is entering the final year of his rookie contract and is set to make $1.63 million for the 2014 season. Salguero believes he has clearly outplayed his rookie deal and is in position for a sizable raise.

Last year, Pro Football Focus rated Pouncey as the No. 13 center in the league and a particularly solid pass-protector.